The Motive and The Cue evaluate – John Gielgud and Richard Burton’s Hamlet conflict | Theatre | Entertainment | EUROtoday

Following a profitable run on the National Theatre earlier this 12 months, Jack Thorne’s engrossing new play directed by Sir Sam Mendes has now transferred to the West End.

The Motive and The Cue focuses in on the rehearsals of the 1964 Broadway manufacturing of Hamlet and its behind-the-scenes clashes between director Sir John Gielgud and titular star Richard Burton.

Similar to the themes explored in Tennessee Williams’ A Streetcar Named Desire, this thrilling manufacturing explores the New World (of theatre on this case) colliding with the Old Order.

In the present’s finest efficiency, Mark Gatiss’ ageing Gielgud places on an expert steadiness towards Johnny Flynn’s drunken Burton and his impulsive antics.

Both rile at one another with scrumptious luvvie wit, on this meta tribute to the artwork of theatre itself. Yet because the play progresses we see the reality of their insecurities.

Gatiss’ Gielgud, lonely and closeted, appears like a has-been whereas at house Burton drowns himself in alcohol together with his new bride Elizabeth Taylor, performed sultrily by Tuppence Middleton.

Despite their frustrations, the 2 males can’t however assist have a jealous respect for each other, as they bicker via scenes within the run-up to the unsure reception of opening night time.

As for the staging, the transitions between the minimalist set items are extremely easy, though a few of playwright Thorne’s sequences maybe outstay their welcome.

Meanwhile, other than the three principal performers, there’s not lots for the opposite actors to do however stand round and watch.

Nevertheless, as a complete, this piece is tough to withstand, particularly after all of the emotion of its rousing conclusion.

The Motive and The Cue is carried out at London’s Noël Coward Theatre till March 23, 2024 and tickets might be bought right here.